Ponoka News, December 23, 2015

CONNECTING THE COMMUNITY Vol. 67, No. 52 | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015 | 403-783-3311 | WWW.PONOKANEWS.COM

Broncs earning their keep as season opens Story on page 17

Christmas customs from around the world Story on page 5

Santa Anonymous (l-r) Rebecca Wesner and Nikki Smith, both Grade 12 students, grab hampers Thursday, Dec. 17 for delivery as part of the PSC Santa’s Anonymous program. Over 130 families and individuals had hampers delivered. Please see our story on page 2.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015

Year in review for Ponoka’s economic development

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS 2015 has been a busy year for the town’s economic development department, which has taken steps to complete an action check list, set last year.

Stephen Novak, economic development officer for the Town of Ponoka and Justin Graham, chairperson of the Economic Development Board (EDB) spoke about what has been achieved in the outgoing year.

Most recently was the development of the Downtown Revitalization Committee, which is in the process of looking for members, explained Novak. Another new development is a tourism initiative in central Alberta, run through the Red Deer tourism office, the central Alberta destination management plan, which includes 10 municipalities. Planners within each town come together to set tourism goals for the future.

“The idea of the group is to kind of get a snapshot of where we are … Are we taking advantage of all the tourism related industries in the area?” explained Novak.

The committee takes stock of key areas that could be promoted for tourism pusposes such as Ponoka’s river valley or trail systems. “The idea was to determine who the ‘ideal’ traveller is for central Alberta and then tailor everything to those people here.”

Novak says there is strong interest in experience-related tourism and each municipal member paid $5,000 with matching grant funds to commission a study to bring about a marketing campaign geared to the area.

Municipalities in the Highway 2 corridor from Ponoka to Olds and Rimbey to Bashaw are included in the group. Graham was able to take part in a presentation of the committee and he feels positive about the future results.

The EDB has also taken on a more active role than in previous years, added Graham. Last spring the EDB met with Ponoka realtors to get an idea of commercial real estate and lease rates compared to other communities.

The purpose of the meeting, says Graham, was to find out about the cause behind empty commercial buildings. What resulted from that initial meeting was that Ponoka’s commercial rates are competitive with similar communities. While there was no real resolution or understanding of the reasons behind the empty buildings, it also helped him see other needs in town.

“They (realtors) brought to light a need for affordable housing, condominiums, things like that for young families. They want single attached dwellings. Apartment buildings, there’s a need for apartment buildings,” said Graham.

One of the challenges he sees for residents is also

a change in perspective.

Graham suggests there is a tendency to feel negative about shortcomings in different services in the community such as a choice in retail stores or availability of products, however, with a little search, people may find niche products within the different stores in town.

In-town orientation signage is also being developed and town residents will start to see signs throughout the community to specific destinations in town.

Graham says he looks forward to continued advocacy for Ponoka businesses and to attracting county businesses into the discussion for 2016.

He added that a Ponoka County councillor is expected to join the EDB in an advisory capacity.

Novak said the addition will be able to bridge communication gaps for the EDB and the town.

“It’s just offering for people to come in and be a part of it,” added Novak.

Over 130 Santa’s Anonymous packages delivered to families

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS More than 130 Ponoka families and individuals are going to have a more festive Christmas this year thanks to the help of Ponoka Secondary Campus (PSC) students.

Seventy-five hampers full of turkeys, food and presents were delivered to families Thursday, Dec. 17 and more than 60 individual baskets of ham and other food items were delivered by PSC students who took part in the Santa’s Anonymous campaign.

Heading the campaign was Karen David, who said there was a large amount of cash donations this year, which helped considering they were down in food.

Money from the Stuff-a-Bus campaign and other areas helped ensure that less fortunate Ponoka residents were able to have something for the holiday.

Each year the need changes and David said 2015 showed a strong need partly due to the economy. “We did expect it to be a little higher this year … We actually had to make up a couple extras and people were still phoning today.”

PSC students were kept busy throughout the week leading up to delivery and David said many PSC students and classes helped out. “We’ve had lots of kids come and help. It’s amazing.”

Rebecca Wesner and Nikki Smith, both Grade 12 students, have helped wrap presents over the years and this year is the first time they delivered hampers.

“Overall, it’s an amazing thing to do because this is a tough time of year for families who don’t have as much,” explained Smith.

Wesner credited David and other organizers for ensuring the process goes smoothly. One thing that struck Wesner the most this year was during the packing stage.

Students were given lists of the ages of the kids, but not their names, who needed presents and some of those kids were the same age as Wesner.

“They’re still getting a Christmas,” said Wesner.

For Smith, what stood out the most was also those who donated food, toys and money to the cause.

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PONOKA NEWS 3

A total of 23 charges against four carjackers A total of 23 criminal charges are being laid against three youths and one adult, including possession of stolen property over $5000.00, breaching probation order, unlawful possession of firearms and several firearms offences.

While police were attempting to locate a youth reported missing on Dec. 19, another complaint was received of a male who had been picked up in a car stolen by three males, one of which was the missing youth.

As police were searching for the youths in the stolen 2015 Toyota Camry, information

was received that they may be around the downtown area.

With the assistance of the RCMP helicopter, Ponoka RCMP located the stolen vehicle in the parking lot of a local business.

The three male youths were arrested and taken into custody. The fourth male was later arrested in a vehicle, with two firearms.

Samurai sword bad for man on drugs A little after midnight on Dec. 14, RCMP received a complaint from a female that her 41-yearold son who has been using illegal drugs was not behaving normal. Police learned that the

male was hallucinating and running around with a samurai sword pretending people are on the property. The male, who had a previous record and was on conditions, was arrested and charged for mischief and failing to comply with his conditions. A bail hearing was conducted and the male did not speak to bail and was remanded in custody until his court date.

Empty ATM machine stolen and found opened by blow torch RCMP received a complaint of a break-and-enter at a downtown bar in the morning of Dec. 21, around 7:45. The suspects broke a window to

gain access to the bar and stole the ATM machine, which was understood to have been not stocked. Less than an hour later, police received a report that the ATM machine was located on Township Road 424 and Range Rd 271. Members attended and found the ATM machine opened by blow torch and damaged.

Female student threatens to stab fellow student A 14-year-old female was charged for uttering threats and breaching conditions on Dec. 18 after RCMP School Resource Officer was informed of a threat of stabbing directed to a student at one of the schools in

Ponoka area. Police attended the school and the subject of the complaint was later located within town limits. She was charged with uttering threats and breaching her conditions.

Further investigation led to another 15-year-old male youth being charged for breaching his conditions, and possession of a weapon from an incident that occurred the night before.

• Danny Jones • YO U M AY Q UA L I F Y F O R DENTURES THROUGH THE SENIOR BENEFITS PROGRAM.

Several Ponoka offenders punished at provincial court

BY JORDIE DWYER PONOKA NEWS One of the men charged in what could be regarded as a home invasion has pleaded to some charges stemming from the incident and will be spending further time behind bars.

Lane Dickson, now 19 from Red Deer, entered guilty pleas in Ponoka Provincial Court - via closed circuit television from the Red Deer Remand Centre - on Friday, Dec. 18 to three charges relating to an incident from Sunday, Dec. 14, 2014.

Those charges were break and enter, party to unlawful confinement and possession of weapon dangerous to the public and led to him receiving an 18 month jail sentence as well as a 10-year firearm ban plus an order to produce a DNA sample for storage in the national databank.

Dickson was one of seven individuals involved in a break and enter of a Ponoka home around 5:30 a.m. that day in search of collecting a drug debt that was owed by one of the residents. Dickson admitted playing the part of ensuring

no one left the home and that he carried what was a sword or machete during the incident.

While Dickson and a few others essentially played security, others involved searched the home for valuables, but only a X-box gaming system was taken and no physical harm was done to the people in the home despite some threats to do so and the fear imposed by seeing weapons which included an alleged firearm - that turned out to be an air soft gun.

The joint sentence that was presented was agreed to by presiding Judge J. Glass, in part, due to the cooperation

by Dickson in the early stages of the investigation that eventually led to the charges against himself and the other individuals.

With consideration given for the time Dickson has already spent behind bars, he has just over six more months left to serve on the sentence.

Pair of impaireds Two individuals found themselves without a licence and facing sizable fines after pleading guilty to charges of drinking and driving earlier this year.

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The first was Joshua Montoor, 27 of Erimeskin, who entered a guilty plea to having a blood alcohol level above 0.08 and was handed a hefty fine of $2,600 to go with a one-year driving ban. Montoor was pulled over on the evening of Wednesday, Nov. 11 after being seen leaving the Ponoka 7-11 following a complaint the vehicle he was driving had been seen earlier on Highway 2A north of town speeding plus hitting the ditch and then becoming airborne as it returned to the road.

Once he was stopped by RCMP, Montoor was found to have a strong odour of alcohol on his breath and later found to have levels more than double the legal limit - at close to 0.20. That aggravating level, combined with the reported driving pattern by a witness, convinced Judge Glass to impose a higher than usual fine along with issuing a warning.

“You are very fortunate, given all of what happened that night, to not have hurt yourself or anyone else that was on the road,” stated Glass during sentencing.

“Given the recently released

If you have information, please call the Ponoka RCMP at 403783-4472. If you want to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-2228477 (TIPS), or by internet at www.tipsubmit.com. You do not have to reveal your identity to Crime Stoppers, and if you provide information to Crime Stoppers that leads to an arrest(s), you may be eligible for a cash reward.

startling statistics that over the last five years about 90 people have been killed and more than 500 injured in incidents where at least one driver was impaired, its fortunate you weren’t added to those statistics.”

The other person to plead to one count of having a blood alcohol level over 0.08 was Bradley Baptiste, 20 of Ponoka.

He was stopped on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2015 going more than 20 kilometres over the speed limit while 50th Street in Ponoka then found with alcohol on his breath and not being able to produce a licence.

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4 PONOKA NEWS

Religion

Your Guide To Local Houses of Worship

Into the silence

CHURCH DIRECTORY Associated Gospel Churches of Canada

CHURCH OF THE OPEN BIBLE Pastor Jerry Preheim • Pastor Matt Sealy 3704 - 42 St. Ponoka 403-783-6500 Worship Service 11:00 a.m. • churchoftheopenbible@telus.net

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH PONOKA

PASTOR TIM GRAFF

Erin Dirsten - Fac. Youth & Family Min. & James Crosina - Fac. of Community Life

Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church

Sr. Pastor Paul Spate

5109 - 57 Ave. Ponoka www.fbcponoka.org

403-783-5533

Bible Discovery Hour 9:30 a.m.

Worship Service 10:30 a.m.

NEW COVENANT BAPTIST REFORMED CHURCH Currently meeting at Ponoka Christian School 6300-50 St. Worship Service Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Everyone Welcome! phone: 403-783-6962 • www.baptistreformedponoka.org

PARKLAND REFORMED CHURCH South on 2A, West on Spruce Road 403-783-1888 Worship Service 10:00 a.m. & 2:30 p.m.

Rev. Mitch Ramkissoon www.parklandurc.org

PONOKA WORD OF LIFE CHURCH Pastor Rob McArthur

403-783-5659

Sunday @ 10:30 a.m.

Corner of Hwy 53 & Hwy 2A (former Crossroads Restaurant)

www.wordoflife.ca

PONOKA UNITED CHURCH Minister: Beatrix Schirner

ponokaunited@shaw.ca

Sunday Service 10:00 am.

5020-52 Ave. Ponoka

Phone: 403-783-4087

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH PASTOR DAVE BEAUDOIN 6230-57 Ave. Ph. 403-783-6404 Saturdays 9:30 - 12 Noon dsjjb@xplornet.com ponokaadventist.ca

Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way.

When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.

And her husband Joseph, being a just man and un-

willing to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”

All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us).

When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus (Matthew 1:18-25).

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For more information on these programs please call SONRISE CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH Pastor W. Delleman Worship Service 10:30 a.m. ½ mile south of Centennial Centre for Mental Health & Brain Injury

403-783-6012 • www.sonriseponoka.com

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ST. MARY’S ANGLICAN CHURCH Rev. Donna Willer Rev. Marty Tuer, Honourary Assistant 403-783-4329

Sunday Service: Holy Eucharist 10 a.m. www.stmarysanglicanponoka.com

TRINITY EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 5501 - 54 Ave. Ponoka 403-783-4141 Sunday Service: 10:30am Sunday School: 10:30am Pastor Tim Graff • trinityponoka.ca

ZION CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Pastor Fred Knip 9 miles east on Hwy 53 403-782-9877 Jr. Church during service for children Sunday Service 10:30 am

It’s hard to know how many people knew about this story the next week.

We know that a few shepherds and wise men from the east found out about it from heavenly sources (Luke 2:9; Matthew 2:2).

We know that King Herod eventually responded to the news of this child’s birth by killing every male child in the vicinity (Matthew 2:16). Beyond that, the record is largely silent.

Is this why one of the favorite hymns we sing on Christmas Eve is “Silent Night, Holy Night?” Is this somehow connected to the growing silence of the church in North America as more people attend movies and eat Chinese food than attend worship on Christmas Eve? Or is the silence the way God has always worked His great reversal? God comes to a young woman rather than a matriarch.

God impregnates an officially unmarried woman rather than a married one. God comes in human flesh rather than as Superman. God comes to be with us rather than remain beyond us. God comes to save us rather than to condemn us.

This is the silent mes-

sage that floats in a world filled with so much bad news. We constantly hear of the great atrocities around the globe and yet most of the bad news lives silently in our own lives as sin, death and the power of the devil subtly eat away at us.

In the cold of winter, of town squabbles, economic downturn and people trying to live to the fullest or busiest, God comes into the silence of lives gathering this Christmas Eve, people needing to hear that Word of Good News: “Immanuel, God with us.”

But what will they hear if they arrive at one of those “God” buildings?

Will they hear the noise of loud music, preachers trying to motivate their audience and people clamoring to get it over with and go home? Or will they hear the God who silently comes and sees us as we are, people in need? Will they hear the God who in that still small presence of a baby offers us the sweetness and hope of the Gospel that this Christ has died for you…that this Christ is risen for you!

Merry Christmas!

Pastor Tim Graff

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PONOKA NEWS 5

Reflections of Ponoka

Christmas customs from around the world

BY MIKE RAINONE FOR THE NEWS The glorious joy of Christmas…..the birth of the Christ child has been celebrated by millions of families of all walks of life around the world for countless centuries. Along the way, countless very meaningful traditions and customs have been developed and proudly presented in so many unique and colorful settings, and have been carried on through generations of families and friends in a theme of good fellowship and fun.

These grand celebrations are featured throughout the month of December and into the new year, and are magically performed and practised by young and old in the form of music and song, dance, costumes, pageants, and culinary sensations from moms and great-grandmas.

Christmas around the world *In Canada and the United States, the most popular giver of gifts at Christmastide (at least for the little children and those who remain young at heart)) is a jolly old gentleman known as Santa Claus. He is also called St. Nicholas in many other parts of the world, where he and his amazing reindeer stop at every home on Christmas Eve… visit that is as long as we have been good. *Other delightful Canadian festive traditions include sleigh rides with bells a jingling and hopes for lots of snow,

the sending of Christmas cards (which have now been slightly adjusted into flashy electronic greetings across the airwaves, lots of gala and glitzy Santa Claus parades, Christmas light-up events and contests, the age-old ‘taffy pull’ in northern Canada, as well as cookie baking parties, carolling, singing and dancing around the community in the spirit of the occasion. *Shortbread, like tweeds and whiskey, is claimed to have originated in Scotland hundreds of years ago, and is passionately celebrated at Christmas, and long into the New Year. In Spain, Mexico, Peru, and Costa Rico, the magnificent Nativity scene is always the centre of Christmas celebrations in every home, and following Midnight Mass, great celebrations and dances are hosted featuring bands, choirs, guitars and costumes, followed by the chosen feast of each nation, with everyone having a merry old time, some all the way to New Years Eve.. In hot countries such as Australia the Christmas meal is usually a few cool beers and a barbecue of ham, steak, or sausages in the back yard, and then it is off to the beach in the afternoon, followed by a relaxing day of watching cricket on Boxing Day. The Chinese call it the Holy birth festival, while the Swedes believed that the animals would talk at the stroke of midnight on Christmas Eve. *The English refer to

Photo from 1961 Ponoka Herald

Dear old Santa Claus really has these children in awe during his annual pre-Christmas visit to Ponoka many years ago, but the old rascal always has a soft knee and a big smile as he listens intently to the gift wishes of all the little duffers, who just can’t wait for his next late night arrival at their house. their giver of gifts as Father Christmas and for years had the custom of burning large blazing Yule logs in their fire-places, then over in Wales the carollers make their musical rounds early on Christmas morning and hope to be asked into the warm homes and fed breakfast, the Fins covered the floors of their homes with straw, and the Danes prefer goose instead of turkey, then sit around and wait for the Yule Man to bring gifts and hope that the Little Gremlins don’t play to many pranks. Another long-standing tradition is the celebration of Boxing Day, which was originated in England when the postman, the milkman and all the servants received a

gaily wrapped gift in a box, but now it has become just an extra day of wild shopping. The Pennsylvania Dutch had a fine custom of making up their own Nativity scenes during the festive holidays, and then went around from house to visit and see which scene was the best. The little children of France used to put out their shoes on Christmas Eve with hopes that Pere Noel would come along and fill them with gifts, but now those big red socks seem to work better. In the early days in Holland St. Nicholas brought the children their gifts on December 5th, because that was his anniversary, where he would make his annual appearance riding a white horse,

dressed in a long red robe, and accompanied by his servant Black Peter. *History claims that Martin Luther created the first lighted Christmas tree after looking out of the window of a castle he was a guest at on Christmas Eve. He saw stars shining through the boughs of a giant fir tree and one very bright star stood in the firmament on the top of the tree. Luther later chopped down a small fir tree in the nearby forest, bought it inside the castle, and then decorated it with candles, with the largest on the top representing the Star of Bethlehem.

Two of the largest surviving Christmas trees in the world are a 3500 year old giant sequoia in California

and a Spanish moss in a North Carolina park that weights 6 tons. Canada has always been one of the largest suppliers of natural Christmas trees in the world, but that changed drastically when those artificial models came along.

Of course there have been many more wonderful and magic Christmas customs and traditions throughout the world, many of which are still carried on to this day, with a modern touch likely added here and there. Whatever the case it is our choice to celebrate this festive holiday season as we wish, but the most rewarding and heartfelt experience is to be able to share it in the company of family, friends, neighbours, and community.

Remember When...

Photo submitted

We certainly hope that this present Alberta winter will not be like this photo of the 1950s blizzard that hit this area right around Christmas. The cows had no problem getting up on the roof of the house after the storm, so hopefully good old Santa Claus was able to make a nice soft landing with his jolly sleigh and trusty reindeer.

6 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015

Opinion

Christmas in the eyes of our little children

MIKE RAINONE HAMMERTIME

My wife and I, like so many other proud parents and grandparents, are especially looking forward to Christmas this time

around because we will be getting together with all of our family, most in person, and several others through the magic of the phone and iPad vision.

Also, this festive season, our youngest grandson (14 months) will be celebrating his first real ‘touch and squeeze everything in reach’ Christmas celebration, only this time it will be in the great white north instead ‘way down under’ where he was born.

All of us, no matter what age we may be certainly cannot resist the wacky and wonderful expressions and surprise antics of our youngest siblings as they experience the joy of the festive season to the fullest. Some of the ‘firsts’ that have already been achieved by our rambunctious little Liam Michael

have included sitting on Santa’s knee, decorating and undecorating the tree all at the same time, his first sleigh ride and roll in the snow, and the random sampling of grandma’s famous nuts-n-bolts, cookies, fudge and whatever other hopefully edible items that he can get his busy little hands on. Just like at your house, thank goodness, all those gaily wrapped presents are out of reach or hidden away until that magic Friday, Dec. 25 morning, only two more sleeps away.

For those of us who are grandparents, we hope that we won’t get shuffled out of bed to early on that happy day, but after we grab a quick cup of coffee, we are now allowed to sit back in our favourite chair and joyfully watch

5019A Chipman Ave., Box 4217, Ponoka, AB. T4J 1R6 Phone: 403.783.3311 Fax: 403.783.6300 Email: editorial@ponokanews.com Published every Wednesday by PNG Prairie Newspaper Group in community with: Regional Publisher, Michele Rosenthal

Judy Dick Manager

the ‘festive frenzy’ unfold in front of us? Through all the usual oooohs and aaaahs and hugs (and hopefully a few thankyous), we will be reminded to snap lots of great pictures on our iPads/phones or old cameras for precious future memories, while graciously admiring the wonderful gifts that were bestowed on us by several generations of our awesome clan. When all the mayhem has settled to a dull roar, we will ‘all’ pitch in to clean up all the colored paper trail and ribbons, then maybe even slip outside to walk the now totally stressed-out dog while grabbing a little bit of fresh air.

The ‘lady angels’ of the house will later suggest that we should come inside for a ‘light lunch’,

Mustafa Eric Editor

Jeff Heyden-Kaye Reporter

which usually includes grilled cheese sandwiches, chips, a Jap orange, and a glass of chocolate milk.

Shortly after that every home is slowly transformed into a ‘culinary’ masterpiece as the master chefs and all their happy helpers prepare for that most magnificent and traditional Christmas dinner, and whether it be at our own house or we pack up the kids and the parcels and make merry with relative and friends it will always a great way to end a perfect day together.

Now let’s have a little festive fun *The four generations of Christmas from boyhood to adulthood are: (1) We believe in Santa Claus (2) We don’t believe in Santa Claus (3) We dress up like Santa Claus (4) We eventu-

Jordie Dwyer Reporter

ally look like Santa Claus. *Why is Christmas sometimes like your job? We do all the work and the fat guy in the suit gets all the credit. *For those who have not made plans yet for the gala festive occasion on Friday,Dec. 25, please accept a warm welcome to attend the annual Ponoka Community Christmas Dinner at the Royal Canadian Legion, with coffee and entertainment at 10 a.m. and meal at 1 p.m.

Please take a little time this Christmas to phone or visit someone who is alone or shut in, try to save just a little cash and energy for all those great Boxing Day bargains, but in the meantime, in between time, have a really glorious Christmas, all of you.

Karen Douglass Sales

Susan Whitecotton Administration

manager@ponokanews.com editorial@ponokanews.com reporter@ponokanews.com rovingreporter@ponokanews.com sales@ponokanews.com admin@ponokanews.com All editorial content, advertising content and concepts are protected by copyright. Unauthorized use is forbidden.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 7

Kindergarten students from St. Augustine School sing during the school’s annual Christmas concert held on Tuesday, Dec. 15. The afternoon concert featured classes from Kindergarten to Grade 3 while an evening concert saw Grades 4 to 6 perform on stage.

Photo by Jordie Dwyer

Donates to Ponoka Hospital & Care Centre

ARE YOU A TOWN RESIDENT INTERESTED IN LAND USE PLANNING?

THE TOWN OF PONOKA SUBDIVISION & DEVELOPMENT APPEAL BOARD IS LOOKING FOR TWO NEW MEMBERS. TRAINING IS PROVIDED. The Subdivision and Development Appeal Board has two upcoming vacancies for members at large.

The purpose of the Board is to hear and decide upon appeals against decisions of the Subdivision Approving Authority or Development Authority. Training for Board Members is provided by Municipal Affairs.

If you are a Town resident and interested in land use planning, please submit a completed Application on or before December 20, 2015 to the Town of Ponoka.

Application forms are available at the Town Office: 5004 – 54 Street Ponoka, Alberta T4J 1N8 Or on the Town’s website at: www.ponoka.ca

Reach

out-of-town customers where they live

PONOKA

WWW.PONOKANEWS.COM

Speed skater faces loss at nationals competition Page 23

For over 9 years Direct Travel’s staff have donated a decorated Christmas tree to the Ponoka Hospital & Care Centre for the enjoyment of the patients, staff and visitors.

Merry Christmas!

30

%

NITY CONNE CTING THE COMMU

S.COM | EDITORIAL@PONOKANEW , JAN. 22, 2014 | 403-783-3311 Vol. 66, No. 4 | WEDNESDAY

Calumet Curling Club celebrates 60 years Page 14

Reflections of Ponoka A life dedicated to sports, family, and community Story on page 5

UP-TO-DATE NEWS WWW.PONOKANEWS.COM

S-aupvtoe-

Rainbow face

durWilla Loveseth gets her face painted ing Family Day festivities at the Ponoka Feb. Culture and Recreation Complex 17. There were many events throughout 8.

Ponoka. Photos can be seen on page Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

WHEN YOU A ADVERTISE IN 11 PAPERS OF T PRAIRIE THE N NEWSPAPER GROUP

PHONE: 403-783-3311 FAX: 403-783-6300

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8 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015

Merry Christmas from Ponoka Jubilee Library

BY JACLYN BERRY

Library celebrations: Parents and their kids enjoyed a fun Ponoka Jubilee Library story time holiday festivities Friday, Dec. 18.

Photo submitted

Does your farm or ranch have non-family employees?

Get the information you need for the new year.

Family-owned farms and ranches that have no waged, non-family 15123DG0 workers will remain exempt from occupational health and safety rules

and mandatory worker’s compensation in the new year.

Farm and ranch operations that employ non-family workers have some new obligations as of January 1.

Visit farmandranch.alberta.ca for information on: •

registering with the Worker’s Compensation Board by April 30

•

basic health and safety rules that apply as of January 1

•

how you can help shape the application of future safety and other workplace rules in coming discussions

Merry Christmas, everyone! Today is the last day we are open before being closed for our Christmas break. We are open until 8 p.m. tonight, so hurry on down to get all the books and movies you need to get you through until we reopen on Monday morning. We hope everyone has a lovely Christmas and is able to spend time with their loved ones, as we will be spending time with ours.

We want to thank everyone who brought items

down to the library for the Ponoka Food Bank. We have passed all of these items on to them, and we are sure that they will go to good use over this holiday season.

And thank you to everyone who purchased a Charlie calendar this year.

We are all sold out and were able to raise money for both the library and Charlie. Being at the ripe old age of 18, or around 90 in human years, is pretty incredible for a cat, and a large part of that is due to the pampered life she lives at the library. When we rescued her six years ago, we didn’t really know how the public would react to her, and although Charlie can be a little grouchy on occasion, she has been very happily loved and

supported here. She may not show it, but she loves being a library cat.

January is going to be a busy month here at the library, with all of the following events on our calendar: Story Time – come join Ms. Lori again starting on Jan. 4 at 11 a.m. We invite children ages 3-6 along with their parents to come hear a story and make a craft, all while working on listening and practical skills and making new friends.

Book Club – will meet on Jan. 10 at 3:30 p.m. at the library, and will discuss ‘The Piano Man’s Daughter” by Timothy Findlay.

continued on page 14

Holiday Shopping Hours Dec 23 - 9AM-9PM Dec 24 - 9AM-6PM Dec 25 - CLOSED Dec 26 - 9AM-6PM Dec 27 - 9AM-6PM Dec 28 to Dec 31 - 9AM-9PM Jan 1 2016 - 9AM - 6PM

You can sign up for regular updates on these topics at farmandranch.alberta.ca. You can also e-mail farmandranch@gov.ab.ca or call toll-free at 310-0000 for more information.

5015 50 St. 403-783-3240

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 9

Merry Christmas from Ponoka Town Council and Administration!

We are proud of Ponoka and all it offers. And we are proud to present this list of 2015 accomplishments to Ponoka residents, businesses and industry.

Working together, we can keep moving forward to keep Ponoka a place we are proud to call home, and to welcome new people, business and industry in the future. Every day, our town staff work to provide daily services in Ponoka that contribute to a safe, healthy and vibrant lifestyle.Thanks to our communityminded volunteers, groups, organizations, agencies and board and committee members for your ongoing involvement, participation, enthusiasm, and feedback. We look forward to continuing to work with everyone in 2016.

• •

• • • •

•

• •

PONOKA TOWN COUNCIL • Approval of the project and financing for replacement of the 100-year old Battle River Bridge and 50th Avenue Road Realignment • Laying the groundwork for a new Community Health and Wellness Centre Recreation & Culture Master Plan & Facility Development Study nearing completion A focus on enhanced recreation and town events, including Canada Day celebrations, fireworks and the Town’s first Day in the Park Discussions are taking place on a new Regional Fire Agreement with Ponoka County First-ever Budget Engagement process initiated, including an Open House and a Citizen Survey Review and enhancement of Bylaw enforcement and decision to create a Peace Officer position Established new boards and committees: Airport Development Board, Heritage & Downtown Revitalization Committee, Utilities and Environmental Committee and Police Advisory Committee Development and approval of the Town’s first Corporate Strategic Plan including new Pillars, Guiding Principles, long-term Vision, and work charts identifying the path to achieving our priorities CORPORATE SERVICES AND ADMINISTRATION Manage the Town’s finances, budgets, taxes, and 10 year Capital Plan Approval of the Interim 2016 Budget; ongoing successful independent audits • Diamond Software implementation and upgrades to provide efficient customer service • IT Services set up Town of Ponoka Free WiFi at the Arena, Aquaplex and other locations • Moved to a new Town Hall location on 54 Street; Enhanced Customer Service at the front counter • New Staff Performance Appraisal Process based on our new Corporate Strategic Plan

COMMUNITY SERVICES • The first issue of the Community Program Guide is scheduled for release in January 2016 • Increased daytime programming at the Aquaplex with weekday lessons and extra day time swims, and incredibly positive feedback about our swim instructors and great Aquaplex staff • Arena played host to Skating Carnival, Provincial Hockey Tournament, Tournament of Champions Hockey tournament, Farmer’s Market, Lacrosse, High School Grad, and Ponoka Stampede Activities • All staff worked extremely hard to maintain clean facilities, ball diamonds and sportsfields plus work with passionate local groups to make the most of our recreation facilities PONOKA FIRE DEPARTMENT • The new Safer Community Project is a great success.This program involved the purchase of 100 smoke alarms which are provided to citizens in the community to help promote home fire safety • Since August 2015, the Ponoka Fire Department has recruited 12 new members. Member training is provided to new recruits and long-time volunteers. This training provides responders with the fundamentals to safely respond to an incident involving dangerous goods • Fire Inspections throughout the community and assisting business owners with code compliance • New technology installed in the Fire Hall and on Fire responders cell phones to help get to the scene of an emergency even more quickly

OPERATIONS & PROPERTY SERVICES • Started work on the Battle River Bridge Replacement and Road Realignment of 50th Avenue • Cemetery Master Plan, completion of Phase 1, working with Corporate Services • Airport Feasibility Study completed and New Ponoka Industrial Airport Development Board formed • 47th Street Storm Drainage Upgrade • Lagoon Force Main Extension completed • 1,749 Square Meters of Asphalt Road Repairs and 24,000 Lineal Meters of Asphalt Crack Sealing • 65 Meters of Water Line replaced on 50th Street • Updated Snow Removal and Ice Control Policy • Annual Water Reservoir inspection and cleaning • Tangible Assets Inventory and Infrastructure Life Cycle Plan PLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT • Move of the Planning and Economic Development Department to the Visitor Centre providing a complete development, information and permit “one-stop centre” for residents and visitors • Solid start on the review and update of the Town’s Land Use Bylaw (LUB) with well attended Open Houses, BBQs, foray into the community with surveys and breakfast at the Ag Centre.

• Electronic Filing implemented with new electronic permit filing and tracking system on target for early 2016 • Two successful Business Cafes for Health Services and Real Estate • Ongoing work, growth and involvement of the Economic Development Board

This Report to the Community is published on the Town Website

- Ponoka.ca -

with more detail and colour photos.

Please visit our website to read the complete report. Merry Christmas everyone!

HOMETOWN NEWS TOWN NOTICES

Next meeting of Council: Tuesday, January 12, 2016. Please note this meeting will be at 6 pm at the Ponoka County Boardroom. Agenda packages are posted on the website under ‘Town Hall’ in advance of every Council meeting. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Christmas Holiday Hours have been posted online – www.ponoka.ca/community Remember to post YOUR event on the Town’s calendar – it is easy to do. Go to Ponoka.ca and you will find it on our home page. We are happy to promote your events here and online!

BOARD AND COMMITTEE VACANCIES Utilities and Environmental Committee - Looking for four members at large for this new committee, which will explore new means of revenue generation, funding and business models related to Town utilities, natural gas distribution system and waste management.

Are you a Town resident interested in Land Use Planning? The Town’s Subdivision and Development Appeal Board has two upcoming vacancies for members at large. Training is provided by Municipal Affairs. The purpose of the Board is to hear and decide upon appeals against decisions of the Subdivision Approving Authority or Development Authority.

Please submit completed Applications on or before December 20, 2015 to the Town of Ponoka. Application forms are available at Town Hall or on the website.

10 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015

Christmas concert fun: Parents enjoyed a fun Christmas concert at Ponoka Elementary School Thursday, Dec. 17. Here the Grade 4 students tell a holiday story with Nathan Parker as a moose acting along.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

Our office will be available by appointment only from December 21 - January 1 in order for our staff to prepare and enjoy the holiday season with their families.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

SANDRA LYON TYLER FESSLER Broker/Owner

Associate

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#3, 5012-48 Ave in the Wedin’s Prof. Bldg.

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BOB TILTGEN Associate

TODD REED

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Merry Christmas JANE WIERZBA Associate

DEB STEVENS Assoc. Broker

LISA SMITH Associate

May your holidays deliver all the gifts that really count...

Peace, Love, Friendship and Joy! For the gift of your loyal friendships and business, we are truly grateful! #2, 6000 - 48 Ave. Ponoka, AB • 403.783.5007 • www.remax-ponoka.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 11

Outreach School hosts traditional Christmas supper Outreach school teachers lead carol singing with their instruments during the Ponoka Outreach School’s traditional Christmas supper on Wednesday, Dec. 16.

Submitted photo

SUBMITTED

Outreach School.

Special thanks to the Ponoka Legion and Neighborhood Place for their generous donations to help make this special event happen. This is important for our students because for some of them, this will be the only Christmas dinner they

Christmas Dinner with all the trimmings has been a Christmas tradition at the Ponoka Outreach School for many years.

This year over 100 people were fed a delicious turkey dinner provided by the staff at the Ponoka

have.

Many special guests attended, including members of the Wolf Creek School Division central office, the tech department and payroll department.

Also the Ponoka Youth Centre was represented along with the Maskwacis Youth Initiative group. Our

school Resource Officer was in attendance as well.

It was a “full house” but the food was good and the laughter loud as everyone enjoyed a special time together.

The dinner started off with some Christmas carols provided by some talented teachers at the school. Mr. Lewis, Mr. Halbert, Mr. MacEachern and Mr. Dortman led the

group as they played guitars and trombone to lead the singing. Before dinner started, our Elder, Joseph Deschamps blessed the food and thanked the Creator.

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CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS*

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Christmas Hours:

December 24th Christmas Eve 8am – 3pm December 25th Christmas Day CLOSED December 26th Boxing Day CLOSED December 31st New Year’s Eve 8am – 4pm January 1st New Year’s Day CLOSED

Regular store hours: Weekdays: 8:00 am - 5:30 pm Saturday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Sunday: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm Closed Stat Holidays / OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK *Sale runs from December 23, 2015 to January 16, 2016 *Discounts include sale items *In stock items only while quantities last *Special orders arrived do not apply *No rainchecks or layaway

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12 PONOKA NEWS

PONOKA CO-OP OILS Retail, Cardlock & Bulk Fuel Sales

Clayton Morrow - Manager Locally Owned and Operated Phone 403-783-4288 Fax 403-783-3700 4700 Highway 2A, Ponoka

JOHN W. LOW Agencies Inc.

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Have a good time, this holiday season. But, if you know you’re going to drink, choose a designated driver, take a cab, or arrange to stay over. Getting on the road after even one drink can impair your judgment and reaction time, opening the door to a holiday disaster.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 13

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14 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015

Ponoka Jubilee Library

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continued from page 8 Lego Club – starts again on Jan. 15 from 3:30-5 p.m., and meets every second Friday. Come down to the library and build to your heart’s content.

Non-restricted and restricted firearms safety course – come learn firearms safety from a skilled instructor on Sunday, Jan. 17. For times and costs, contact Luke Peters at 403791-9898 or visit http:// w w w. a l b e r t a f i r e a r m scourse.com Free Family Movie – come check out ‘Big Hero 6’ playing on Friday, Jan. 22 at 2 p.m. Everyone welcome.

Beer Tasting – on Saturday, Jan. 23 at 7 p.m. come taste 10 beers from light to dark, along with tasty food. Detailed information on prices available at the library, or call 403783-3843.

Coming soon: Check out ‘Morning Star’, the third and final book in the Red Rising trilogy by Pierce Brown. Following in the footsteps of the Hunger Games and Maze Runner series, Pierce Brown takes you into a multi-layered dystopian future that is seething with characters who exist in a shadow world between history and myth. All three books at Ponoka Jubilee Library soon.

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 15 A similar mobile grain entrapment training unit to the one pictured is being built by the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association to help educate farmers on safety tips when it comes to grain entrapment.

Photo submitted

Farm safety group develops grain entrapment safety program

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS A farm safety advocacy group is developing a mobile grain entrapment training unit aimed at demonstrating safety tips to prairie farmers.

The Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) announced Thursday, Dec. 17 in a press release it had joined forces with canola producer associations in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba to build a mobile entrapment demonstration unit.

Impetus for the program came from the perceived need to give farmers important safety tips with regards to grain being moved from an auger into a hopper or bin, says Marcel Hacault, executive director for CASA. The announcement has been met with positive response, especially after a first-responders training program in Nova Scotia helped save the life of one farmer. “They actually used their training to rescue a 20-year-old man,” said Hacault.

At the time of the announcement, there was enough money raised to build one training unit, but CASA’s goal is to raise $600,000 to build three units and have them operate around the country.

Besides the Manitoba Canola G rowe r s Association (MCGA), the Alberta Canola Producers (ACP) and SaskCanola, Hacault says others have shown strong interest in the program. While grain suffocation is not the biggest danger on a farm, it has grown over the years.

Hacault says with bigger hoppers/bins and faster augers it doesn’t take long for person to be fully engulfed.

“As soon as you’re covered above the knees, you can’t get out,” explained Hacault of the danger.

He likened it to quicksand as there is no support within the hopper to remove oneself. Some of the reasons for a farmer going into a bin could be due to flow issues

or crusted grains and Hacault feels this training unit will provide useful tips to stay out of harm’s way.

In the press release, CASA expressed satisfaction with the support of the canola associations, each of which have committed $30,000 over three years. The MCGA feels these training units will have long term benefits to the industry.

“They provide opportunities for agricultural workers, farmers and

VJV MARKET REPORT MARKET REPORT DECEMBER 16, 2015

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farm families across the prairies to learn about the importance of grain safety and spread awareness of the dangers of grain entrapment,” said MCGA’s Jack Froese.

“It is imperative that farm safety remain a top priority for our industry,” added Stuart Holmen of ACPC. “The more organizations get involved and support farm safety initiatives, the

more we are able to raise awareness for all farmers and farm families to mitigate risks they encounter on a daily basis,” stated Dale Leftwich of SaskCanola.

CASA is looking for support to improve the program and invites individuals, associations and businesses to check out the program or to provide support at www.casa-acsa.ca.

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16 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015

Mackinaw sanguine about PM’s approach to FN issues

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS First Nations of Canada seem to be happy with several first-time actions taken by the federal government in relation to their status and grievances.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Tuesday, Dec. 8, which included Craig Mackinaw of Ermineskin na-

tion in Maskwacis, Alberta regional chief. Mackinaw said over a decade had passed since a prime minister met with AFN chiefs. “I know it’s the first time a prime minister addressed the AFN assembly in over 15 or 20 years.”

He added that so far Trudeau has been following through with his election campaign promises. The Dec. 8 meeting also set some potential

improvements in the relationships between the federal government and the AFN with Trudeau stating there is a need for renewed nation to nation relationship.

Among the priorities expressed by Trudeau were lifting the two per cent cap on funding for First Nations programs, something the prime minister says hasn’t been changed for almost 20 years. Mackinaw

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No jam sessions Dec. 26 & Jan. 2 Billiards - Weekdays 1:00pm. Mon through Sat – 50 cents per game. Honour system Monday Bridge 1:00pm Monday Whist - 1:30pm Monday Yoga - 6:30pm Tuesday Canasta - 1:00pm Tuesday & Thursday Exercise class 9:30am - Classes commence Jan. 12/16 Tuesday Pickleball 6:30pm Centennial Centre - contact Janice Mackie 403-396-3160 Tuesday Shuffleboard - 7pm Wednesday morning - PIANO LESSONS FOR SENIORS (Sara Driedger 403-790-1980) Wednesday Sewing Guild 9:30am to 4pm Wednesday Cribbage 1:00pm Wednesday Yoga - 6:30pm Wednesday Duplicate Bridge 7:00pm Thursday Floor Curling - 1:00pm Thursday Weaving 1:00pm Welcome to drop-in to see how it’s done Thursday Bridge 1:00pm Thursday Art Club Drop In Noon to 4pm Friday “500” 1:00pm Saturday Yoga 9:30am Memberships available for 2016 - $10.00 per person. To rent our facility contact Dorothy @ 403-783-3027 or George @ 403-783- 3514 or leave a message @ 403-783-5012. Rentals are increasing and we would like to invite our town administration, business groups, and general public (Wedding, funeral, and Birthday groups), to inquire about rentals services and prices early in their planning. We may fit your bill!

is pleased to see other areas of focus such as launching a national public inquiry into missing and murdered indigenous women, implementing all 94 Truth and Reconciliation Commission recommendations, investing in First Nations education and to repeal legislation imposed by the previous government.

While it is early days yet, Mackinaw suggests after the New Year it will be clearer how this will look and unfold but added much of what was talked about gave consideration to treaty agreements between First Nations and Canada.

One week after Trudeau spoke with the AFN assembly, the Truth and Reconciliation released its final report.

Mackinaw suggests implementing each recommendation will take time. While he feels implementation of some recommendations can start relatively soon, others may take some years to develop a plan of action.

Another first at Dec. 8 was the attendance and speeches of Bob Paulson, RCMP Commissioner; Hunter Tootoo, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans and Carolyn Bennett, the Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs.

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Offenders punished at provincial court continued from page 3 Due to the speed he was going at and elevated level of 0.15, Baptiste received a sentence of a $1,200 fine - which is slightly higher than for a first offense - and a one-year driving ban. He will also be allowed to apply for the ignition interlock program after the first three months of the ban.

Time served enough for punishment A Maskwacis man with an admitted alcohol problem was released from jail after pleading guilty to two counts of failing to comply with conditions.

Lyndon Saddleback, 20, was found by RCMP lying on the road near McDonalds on Wednesday, Dec. 9 around 12:30 a.m. unable to stand on his own with a strong odour of alcohol and uncooperative.

He is presently under release conditions to abstain from alcohol and was under a curfew, due to pending charges that are set for trial next month.

Saddleback apologized to the court, adding he regrets the incident and is hoping the period of sobriety he has had while in jail will help get him back on track with finishing his school courses and being there for his family.

In the end, he was given 1.5 times credit for the eight days he had already been behind bars, meaning the sentence handed down amounted to time served.

Thefts don’t pay A now-former-Ponoka man will be locked away until just before Christmas after pleading guilty to three charges.

Cody Estelle-Pittman, 22, now residing near Innisfail, was sentenced to five days behind bars along with being fined $400 on two counts of theft under $5,000 and one count of failing to comply with release conditions.

Back on Wednesday, Oct. 21, he was caught shoplifting just over $12 worth of product from Hamilton’s IGA, followed exactly two weeks later by his arrest for his part in a poppy box being stolen from the Ready Mart. Estelle-Pittman distracted the convenience store clerk while another male took the box with the case, but the pair were caught a short time later while fleeing from the bar located across the street once they saw police.

Then on Saturday, Dec. 5, he was seen near a local bar by officers in the company of an individual police knew Estelle-Pittman was under court order to have no contact with, thereby breaking a condition of his release on pending charges.

His lawyer explained a problem with meth and association with the wrong crowd were part of why he was involved, something that has been solved with him moving

out of the area.

However, Judge Glass showed less sympathy than in previous cases that had been dealt with in the day in dishing out a short jail term.

“While shoplifting a relatively small amount is wrong, I find the theft of the poppy box to be reprehensible to the point that cannot be dealt with by way of a fine,” he said.

“The money raised in this fashion goes toward helping those that fought for your freedoms today and they do not deserve to be treated in that fashion.”

Mistaken door knock One local man is now paying for being extremely drunk with a criminal record.

Twenty-year-old Randy Van Hell from Ponoka pleaded guilty to one charge of mischief causing damage after mistakenly knocking a door down at a home he believed was the one he was residing at.

Around 3 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 22, RCMP were called to a home to follow up on a report of a male banging heavily on a door and swearing to be let in. Upon arrival, officers found the door had been busted off the hinges and found an intoxicated male approach them in the back alley a short time later. That man was Van Hell and told officers he was lost while trying to find where he was living.

His lawyer explained Van Hell was out that night and was dealing with a relationship break-up and not being able to see his young daughter as a result.

Given the circumstances, Van Hell was fined about $400.

Domestic assault fine A bump on the head combined with a trip to the hospital was all it took to earn a big fine for a Ponoka man.

Corey Paternak, 49, was fined nearly $1,000 after pleading guilty to assaulting his common-law wife of 16 years back on Sunday, Nov. 8. The charge was a result of police attending a residence after a 911 hang-up was called back by dispatchers and the woman spoken to was crying and reported she had been hit on the head.

Police found a large bump on the woman’s head and she ended up being transported by ambulance to hospital.

In his defence, his lawyer pointed out the pair’s relationship has been rather stormy from the beginning with both individuals being placed on peace bonds against each other in recent times, adding now may be the time to learn how to deal with their disagreements in a different way.

In handing out the large fine, Judge Glass took into the account the aggravating factors of Paternak’s related record and the fact it was a domestic abuse circumstance.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 17

Sports

Broncs earning their keep as season opens

BY JORDIE DWYER PONOKA NEWS It’s been a short opening to the basketball season for the senior squads at

Ponoka Secondary, though both made the most of it before the holiday break began this week.

On the girls’ side, they got their home schedule

Ponoka Secondary Broncs Lindsey Gartner beats a pair of Rocky Mountain House defenders down the floor and deposits an uncontested basket in the second quarter of their 85-61 win at home on Tuesday, Dec. 15. The win for the senior girls squad evened their league record at 1-1. The team also played well at a tournament in Airdrie over the weekend.

Photo by Jordie Dwyer

off on the right foot by posting a 36-21 victory over Rocky Mountain House on Tuesday, Dec. 15 to even their league record to 1-1 before heading to Airdrie for a tournament over the weekend, where they finished a respectable fourth after losing in the consolation final.

Head coach Cam Horan was really pleased with the efforts of the girls the past week.

“The girls played great (versus Rocky), mainly behind our defence,” he stated.

“While, we played phenomenal on the weekend considering the fact we were short-handed. Once again, our defence was extremely strong, and the consolation final loss might have been closer or even a different result all together if we had more bodies to be able to keep up with Sylvan Lake.”

Horan’s tournament crew consisted of just eight players, who ended up simply just worn out and exhausted in their last game, with the game ending as only a loss by 12 points - a great testament given the situation.

The girls will be right back into the thick of things when school returns - as they will face off against Lindsay Thurber on Tuesday, Jan. 5 in their first post-break game, then will be hosting the annual Swoosh tournament on Jan. 8 and 9, something Horan in looking forward to.

Two forward, one back Over of the boys side of the bucket, the Broncs pulled out a huge 85-61 win over Rocky Mountain House on Dec. 15 at home, playing what head coach Tylor Johnson called a nearly perfect game.

“Rocky brought some serious intensity and pace from the start. They were very well coached and we

struggled to keep up for the first few minutes,” explained Johnson.

“Eventually we figured out what they were attempting to do and we started playing perfect basketball.”

Jaden Sandins led the team with 23 points in the game where the Broncs never trailed after the first four minutes. Leading the way on the boards and defensively were Nils Simons and Blake Waldron.

Johnson added the game was the best he saw the boys play so far, by keeping to the basics and not forcing things which created too many turnovers.

“I’ve been preaching - to simplify the game they did and everything we had struggled with in previous games, especially rebounding and press break, turned around,” he said.

“When we play simple, we are successful. We can compete with most teams if we play the right way.

I really hope this shows the kids that when they play the system, and keep it simple, we are a tough team to play against.”

The boys also played an exhibition game on Thursday, Dec. 17, but things didn’t go well and Johnson took the blame, explaining the guys were too tired.

“It was our fifth game in seven days, they had zero energy and it was a tough one to watch,” Johnson said.

“I’m upset with myself for putting us in that situation, but I’m not too worried about it though.

The guys gave everything they had, but I think the positive momentum we built by taking bronze in our home tourney and the win over Rocky won’t be taken away by this.”

The boys’ next action will also be Jan. 5 against Thurber.

Blake Waldron of Broncs attacks Rams’ rim during their exhibition game against the visitors from Lacombe on Thursday, Dec. 17, when Ponoka boys had a hard time scoring from inside the paint.

Photo by Mustafa Eric

Team Sherrer wins Adam’s Chevrolet Super League SUBMITTED Super League curling wrapped up another successful season on Wednesday, Dec. 16. It was great to see 12 teams in the super league this year after having only 10 teams the last couple of seasons.

Congratulations also go out to Team Waldren and Team Ponoka Professional Pharmacy for winning the “B” and “C” pools respectively.

Final Standings: Pool “A” Sherrer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 775 Classic Granite Works . . . . . . . . . . 725 Baron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 675 Stebner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 615 Pool “B” Waldren. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 565 Lea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 390 Adam’s Chevrolet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 340 Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 325 Pool “C” Ponoka Professional Pharmacy . . 365 McKelvie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 275 Riske . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 260 Walton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

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18 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015

Stamps take positive steps into break

BY JORDIE DWYER PONOKA NEWS It was something to build upon for the Ponoka Jr. B Stampeders.

In a game that went back and forth all night, it only took seven seconds for the local squad to reap some rewards for their hard work as the Stampeders slid past the Airdrie Thunder 6-5 in overtime at the Ponoka Culture and Recreation Centre on Saturday afternoon (Dec. 19).

Nate Higgins’ shot from the left side boards went top shelf over the shoulder of the Airdrie goalie not long after the puck dropped for the extra frame, snapping the Stampeders’ five-game losing skid.

The win still leaves them tied in last place with Stettler in the division, both with 16 points. The Stampeders did play Sunday afternoon in Banff, but the result was

not available at press time.

“It was unreal,” stated Stamps head coach Tyler Fiveland about the victory, who wasn’t behind the bench for the game as a result of having to serve a one-game suspension for being ejected from their last home game on Dec.9.

“It was nice to see Roenick Minde, a new guy we brought in, have a big impact plus to be able to get (goaltender) Zeke Leuck a win he has so much deserved lately.”

In the game, after Airdrie opened the scoring just two minutes in, Jaizen Threefingers tied it for Ponoka with about five minutes gone in the first only to see Airdrie retake the lead with four minutes left in the frame.

However, the Stampeders would answer with two goals in 22 seconds as Higgins tied it with 1:25 left in the first, followed by a goal from

Justin Van Tetering to make it 3-2 at the intermission.

The back and forth scoring would continue in the second with Airdrie tying it halfway through, then Ponoka’s Minde getting his first as a Stampeder with a little less than four minutes to go, only to have the visitors tie it again 44 seconds later.

Airdrie took the lead five minutes into the third with Austin Ancion tying the game at 5-5 three minutes later on a powerplay. Neither team had many good opportunities the rest of the frame, but all it took was one chance in overtime for the hosts to walk out with the win.

During much of their five game losing streak, the Stampeders looked like a squad with little to give, something Fiveland admitted had a lot to do with the schedule and was fixed

somewhat by the 10-day break they had before this weekend.

“We had a lot of Wednesday night games this year, which is usually our practice night, so there hasn’t been many chances for us to work on things,” stated Fiveland.

“This past 10 days, we were able to get in some good work in practice and it’s really helped. The guys had a lot of jump, were skating hard, didn’t allow very many odd-man rushes. The only place we didn’t look good on was our powerplay, but it did click once and hopefully that is a sign of things to come.”

Fiveland added the break also seemed to help the guys relax and loosen up on their sticks, which seemed to translate into everyone working better together on the ice and maybe that will help them be able to build on the momentum during the holiday break as well.

Stampeders goaltender Zeke Leuck stretches out to deny Airdrie’s Kristopher LeClair in this tight scoring chance midway through the second period, one of his 32 stops in the 6-5 overtime win at home Saturday.

Photo By Jordie Dwyer The Stampeders are back on the ice in the new year, as they continue their fivegame homestand with games against Three Hills (Jan. 9, 8 p.m.), Coaldale (Jan. 10, 2:30 p.m.) and Stettler (Jan. 13, 7:45 p.m.)

McDavid jersey The club is also hoping to

raise some more money as they are selling tickets to win a framed and autographed retro-orange Edmonton Oiler Connor McDavid jersey. The draw date is Feb. 29 with tickets being $10 each and available from any board member or player or at any upcoming game.

Last second loss disappoints Moose

BY JORDIE DWYER PONOKA NEWS A fraction of a second is going to last a while in the minds of the Ponoka Moose Bantam squad.

After a rather successful couple of weeks, which included a 6-4 victory in Blackfalds on Saturday (Dec. 19), the Moose will be agonizing over falling at home Sunday (Dec. 20) 6-5 to Lacombe who got the winner with less than a second left to play.

To make it sting even more was the fact the Moose held a 5-1 lead early in the third period.

“It’s really tough,” said Moose head coach Ryan Raugust, following the loss Sunday.

“The boys have really been coming together, being accountable to each other and willing to into the tough areas while using their best talents to their advantage. They were good for 40 minutes, but I think they just lost their focus in that final 20.

They got thinking about the big picture of what was lying in front of them (the holiday break), instead of keeping their eye on what they needed to do right now.”

Raugust added the team has been doing all of the right things lately - in learning and executing their systems - which has led to several wins and the idea that they can keep up with the larger, more physical teams.

“We can compete with anyone in this league, just so long as the team can keep their heads in the game and on the task at hand,” he said.

Lacombe took the lead with the only goal of the first, but Ponoka stormed out of the gate in the middle stanza - scoring four times in the frame. Mason Vogel tied it up just 19 seconds in, followed seven minutes later with a goal off the stick of Mathias Sandin to grab the lead. Cyle Laing would make it 3-1 three minutes later with Sandin netting his second of the game with just over six minutes to go in the period.

Ethan Little would make it 5-1 for the Moose one minute and 36 seconds into the third, scoring literally from his back

after managing scoop up a loose puck in front and sliding it by the sprawled out Lacombe netminder.

However, it wasn’t long after that wheels stopped turning for Ponoka and practically fell off as Lacombe would score a pair before the midway point of the third, then capitalized twice on a four-minute powerplay to tie the game with about five minutes remaining.

Ponoka did have their chances, but either couldn’t get a handle on the loose pucks near the Lacombe net or their shots would find iron. In the final two minutes though, it was all Lacombe as they had the Moose pinned in their own end and wound up being able to bang home a loose puck for the winner just before the horn sounded to end the game.

In contrast, Saturday’s match up in Blackfalds saw the Moose make a great comeback, while also outshooting the host squad 37-26 on the night.

Jake Simanton got the Moose on the board 8:30 into the game, only to have league-leading Blackfalds score twice in a 20-second span later in the frame, then up the lead just 21 seconds into the second period.

The comeback didn’t get started until Sandin scored a powerplay goal just before the buzzer sounded to end the second period. That was followed by four straight for the Moose with Vogel scoring just over four minutes into the third, followed

by Sandin’s second less that a minute later, then a pair from Simanton - the first at the halfway mark then his hat trick marker with just over two minutes remaining - sealed the victory.

The Moose now have a lengthy break - as do all of the Ponoka Minor Hockey teams - for the holidays. The Moose are next in action in Blackfalds on Jan. 2.

In other weekend action for Ponoka squads, the Midget

Our finest wishes at the holidays May your Christmas be rich in friendship, love, peace, health and happiness. We wish you and yours all the best, and we thank you for your support this past year.

Ponoka Bantam Moose Eric Taylor (7) fires a shot on net during action in the final frame Sunday versus Lacombe while Ethan Little attempts to provide a screen in front.

However, the Moose would wind up falling 6-5 on a last second goal.

Photo by Jordie Dwyer

Fountain Tire Wolves kept their winning streak alive by dumping Maskwacis 10-2 at home Friday, Dec. 18, then cruising past Hardisty/Hughenden in Hardisty Sunday by a count of 7-2; the Peewee A Elks fell 6-3 at home Saturday to Maskwacis; the Atom A McDonalds got a 3-2 road win Saturday in Sylvan Lake; the Atom C Calnash Trucking team clobbered Rocky Mountain House 12-4 Saturday in Ponoka; while the female Lacoka Midgets earned a 6-1 win Friday in Leduc.

Sunday results for both Ponoka Peewee clubs, both Atom teams and the Lacoka Peewee squad were unavailable at press time.

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 19

Lots of goodwill at fundraiser

BY JORDIE DWYER PONOKA NEWS A few jokes, some fun and a whole lot of money helped to bring some bright light to the coming holiday at St. Augustine School last week.

On Thursday, Dec. 17, the school held its sixth annual Goodwill Cup charity hockey game - complete with a packed crowd of students, staff and parents - at the Ponoka Culture and Recreation Centre. The game, which features staff and other adults that volunteer at the school taking on students, began as a way to raise funds for the school’s Good Samaritan Fund, but has grown to include other local charities.

The Good Samaritan Fund provides assistance to St. Augustine students and families that are experiencing financial difficulties by helping fund fees for sports, school supplies, clothes and at Christmas. The other charity being supported this year was the Canadian Tire Jump Start campaign, which assists children wanting to play sports by paying for registration fees

and equipment.

This year, the fundraiser brought in nearly $1,700 - a number that St. Augustine teacher Darren Josephison said was a wonderful result.

He added this edition also marked a historic point in the event on a couple of fronts.

“Three students - Grade 12s Jarret Henderson, Daniel Hutchkowski and Alyssa Klinger - took part this year in what will be their last one, but what made it special is they are the only students to have played in all six of the Goodwill Cups that have been held. It was really neat to see that,” Josephison stated.

“As well, this was the first time for several of the Grade 7 students that played, who were all in the stands watching as Grade 1 students when this all started.”

As for the final score, that wasn’t important for anyone - not even the students in the stands who professed their allegiances with handmade signs throughout the game - as it was all about giving back and supporting those that need it.

Grade 7 student Alexander Brackenbury gets the students on the scoreboard by putting the puck past Ryan Roos - who coaches the St. A’s junior girls basketball team - with a wonderful spin-a-rama move on this first period penalty shot at the Goodwill Cup on Thursday, Dec. 17. The event raised close to $1,700 for a pair of charities this year.

Photo by Jordie Dwyer

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20 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015

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Items Buy/Sell

Coming Events

Love Always Jenny, Sheldon, Brodie & Nash Joline, Greg, Scott, Keilan & Angelia

2010-2210

Arts & Crafts Shows ..................50 Class Registrations....................51 Coming Events ..........................52 Lost ............................................54 Found ........................................56 Companions ..............................58 Personals...................................60 Bingos........................................64 Fitness & Sports ........................66 Happy Ads .................................70

CLASSIFIED Want Ads do more things for more people than any other form of advertising. Phone 1-877223-3311

Coming Events

52

52

Rental & Real Estate

3000-4310

Coming Events

52

CLASSIFIED N.E. BUY Ponoka News Stettler Independent Bashaw Star Castor Advance Weekender Lacombe Express Pipestone Flyer

Starting at 25 words for $53.55

ALATEEN

Call toll free 1-877-223-3311 or Local 403-309-3300

May all of you who have lost someone Have peace in your heart this Christmas

GET MORE COVERAGE WITH YOUR AD

JUST ASK FOR THE

CLASSIFIED N.W. BUY

Card Of Thanks CLASSIFIEDS Christmas & New Years Hours & Deadlines PALECHEK We would like to extend our thanks to the Aquaplex Staff and the girls from Gun It CrossFit for your quick response to help Garry. To the Drs., Nurses, Ambulance & Trauma team at the Ponoka Hospital Care Center. Their excellent care and concern for Garry and the family was incredible.

Also, to Victim Services for picking Garry’s clothes and truck up from the pool and bringing them home. It was also very reassuring having them with us at the hospital.

A big Thank you to all our friends and family for the cards, flowers, food, phone calls and visits. I do not know how we would have made it through all this without your support. Thank you to Marlon and everyone at the Ponoka Funeral Home. Again, I cannot explain the high level of wonderful care and concern we received. I would also like to thank Deacon Rollie Comeau and the St. Augustine Church music team for providing a beautiful service, to Matthew Graham for his beautiful rendition of “Ava Maria” - Garry’s favourite Christmas Carol, the Knights of Columbus for providing an honor guard and the Ponoka Royal Canadian Legion for your presence. To Bob and Deb Hepp a big Thank You for your generous donation of the beautiful lunch you served to all our family and friends at the Ponoka Legion. At this time we would also like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year.

Joanne, Blair & Jennifer, Amber & Kailyn, Derick & Stephanie.

Office & Phones CLOSED Friday, December 25, 2015 and Friday, January 1, 2016 PONOKA NEWS Publication date: December 23, 2015 Deadline: December 17, 2015 @ 5 pm Publication date: December 30, 2015 Deadline: December 23, 2015 @ 12 noon BASHAW Publication date: December 23, 2015 Deadline: December 17, 2015 @ 12 noon Publication date: December 30, 2015 Deadline: December 23, 2015 @ 12 noon CALL CLASSIFIEDS 403-309-3300 classifieds@ponokanews.com

Public Notice

6010

59

Meetings

Ponoka Agricultural Society ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Monday, Jan 4, 2016 Ponoka County Office Doors open at 6:30pm Meeting starts at 7:00pm Memberships $5 - available at door

JUST ASK FOR THE

• • • • • • •

Vehicles

5010-5240

EMAIL: classifieds@ponokanews.com

GET MORE COVERAGE WITH YOUR AD

#50 - # 70

Nothing loved is ever lost, and you are loved so much!

You are the truest form of love!

Merry Christmas in Heaven, Mom.

Agriculture

1500-1990

What’s Happening

In Loving Memory of Debbie Donnelly Sept. 21, 1954 -Dec. 26, 2013

1-877-223-3311

FAX: 403-783-6300

announcements In Memoriam

CALL TOLL FREE:

ADPACK ALL IN 1

• • • • • •

Ponoka Rimbey Eckville Sylvan Lake Lacombe Pipestone Flyer

Starting at 25 words for $45.90 Call toll free 1-877-223-3311 or Local 403-309-3300

Lost

54

$5000 REWARD leading up to or for the finding of 14 missing simmental cows and 13 calves. Cows have a brand of TLX on the left rib and also possibly a brand of PG (‘G’ is backwards) on the left rib. Calves are probably unbranded. Went missing in Alliance/Sedgewick area. Phone 780-386-3745 or 780-888-1258.

Meetings

59

AL-ANON WEEKLY MEETING FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY OF ALCOHOLICS. Tuesdays 8 p.m.

Neighborhood Place 5110 - 49 Ave., Ponoka For more info 403-783-4557

Weekly meetings Tuesdays @ 8 p.m.

Neighborhood Place 5110 - 49 Ave. Ponoka For more info.

403-783-4557 or 403-783-8371 ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Monday night meetings at the Anglican Church Ponoka 8:30 p.m. Phone 403-783-0719 for info.

THURSDAY AA Meetings at 8:30 p.m. in the Catholic Church basement.

52 Street & 52 Ave. Ponoka.

403-783-4347 403-783-3442

Employment #700 - #920 Caregivers/Aides................710 Clerical ..............................720 Computer Personnel ..........730 Dental ................................740 Estheticians........................750 Hair Stylists ........................760 Janitorial ............................770 Legal ..................................780 Medical ..............................790 Oilfield ................................800 Professionals......................810 Restaurant/Hotel ................820 Sales & Distributors ..........830 Teachers/Tutors..................840 Trades ................................850 Truckers/Drivers ................860 Business Opportunities......870 Miscellaneous ....................880 Volunteers Wanted ............890 Positions Wanted ..............895 Employment Training ........900 Career Planning ................920

Medical

790

MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career!

Employers have work-athome positions available.

Get online training you need from an employertrusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855-768-3362 to start training for your work-athome career today!

MEDICAL TRAINEES needed now! Hospitals & doctor’s offices need certified medical office & administrative staff! No experience needed! We can get you trained! Local Personals job placement assistance available when training is completed. Call for IS someone’s drinking program details! causing you problems?

1-888-627-0297.

AL-ANON 403-346-0320

60

YOUR PAPER!

6 PACK 8 PACK

RECYCLE

REACH OVER 217,000 READERS With one of these great deals!

PONOKA NEWS 21

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015 Restaurant/ Hotel

820

BENTLEY SUBWAY

has immediate openings for permanent full time and part time

FOOD SERVICE SUPERVISORS

for all shifts between 6:30 AM and 10 PM. Duties include supervise and coordinate activities of staff who prepare and portion food, train new staff, establish work schedules, order food and supplies, maintain records of stock, sales, repairs, wastage, ensure food quality and control. Must be friendly, reliable, and a team player. The ability to work under pressure in a fast paced environment is necessary. High School Diploma, Food Safety Certificate, and at least one year experience in the food service industry is required. Must be able to work days, evenings, weekends. Starting wage $13.75/hr with benefit package available.

Apply in person at 4930 - 50 Avenue Bentley between 6:30 AM and 9 PM, or by email to boroneilson@gmail.com

Training for life First Aid Training teaches how to respond confidently when injuries occur.

Clerical

Restaurant/ Hotel

820

Cameron Bay Holdings Inc. o/a McDonalds’s in Ponoka and Red Deer (Gasoline Alley East and West) is now hiring full time and part time Food Service Supervisors.

Wages are between $13.95 to $16.00 per hour, depending upon experience and qualifications.

Candidates must be able to work a variety of shifts and have 3 to 5 years previous experience. Must be able to supervisor up to 20 crew. Part-time applications will be accepted from Canadians and Permanent Residents. Apply in person 4419 Hwy 2A, Ponoka, 37479 Hwy 2, Red Deer, and 37428 Hwy 2, Red Deer or email resume to cbay22@telus.net or fax to 403-783-4251.

Trades

850

INTERIOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT School.

Hands on tasks. Start Weekly. GPS Training!

Funding & Housing Available! Job Aid! Already a HEO? Get certification proof.

1-866-399-3853 or go to iheschool.com

Misc.

Help

880

880

Misc.

Help

STA M P E D E

is now

HIRING

P/T and

F/T cashiers

Employment Training

900

COME AND LEARN. Unlock your Superpowers!

Jan. 29 & 30, 2016, Edmonton. AWNA’s Annual Symposium.

Educational Sessions in Journalism, Sales Ad & News Design. Internationally acclaimed speakers.

Pre-Register. For more info: www. awna.com/symposium.

HEALTHCARE DOCUMENTATION Specialists in huge demand. Employers prefer CanScribe graduates. A great work-from-home career! Contact us now to start your training day; www.canscribe.com.

1-800-466-1535; info@canscribe.com.

person or fax

720

SEASONS GREETINGS BIG STRAPPER AUCTIONS

at The Moose Hall, 2 miles south of Ponoka on Hwy. 2A. Resuming weekly sales Wed. Jan. 13, 2016.

Antique sale 1st. Sun. of Month Feb. 7, @ 1 pm.

EquipmentMisc.

off resumes in

403-783-8273

NEW YEARS DAY Antique Collector Auction! 11 a.m., Friday, January 1, Wainwright Legion, 1030 - 2 Ave., Wainwright, Alberta. Scribner Auction 780-842-5666; www. scribnernet.com.

Unreserved & No Buyer’s Fee!

SEEKING A CAREER in TO BOOK YOUR SALE the Community Newspaper CALL 403-782-5693 or business? Post your 403-304-4791 resume for FREE right Check website for full listings where the publishers are www.bigstrapperauctions.net looking. Visit: awna.com/for-job-seekers.

Please drop

WATKIN MOTORS FORD, Vernon, BC immediately requires an experienced Ford Diesel Technician.

Go to: watkinmotors.com, About us, Employment, to HOW can you make your review required phone ring and make some qualifications. quick cash?

Place your ad here . . .

Start your career!

Phone 1-877-223-3311 See Help Wanted

1530

Auctions

Business Services #1000 - #1430

Misc.

Help

A-CHEAP, lowest prices, steel shipping containers.

Used 20’ & 40’ Seacans insulated & 40’ freezers, Special $2200 Wanted: Professional wood carver needed. 1-866-528-7108; www.rtccontainer.com.

REQUIRES A PAINT PREP & WASH PERSON Duties & Responsibilities: • Washing, cleaning and pre paint set up • Moving equipment in and out of wash area • Assisting in paint booth set up, assisting in final assembly.

www.rennmill.com

If you have the skills necessary for this position, we invite you to send us your Resume with references, as well as your proposed hourly pay rate and any other information you consider necessary to: Ponoka Ag Society Box 4043, Ponoka, AB. T4J 1R5 Attention: Admin Assistant Position or email to: societyponokaag@gmail.com

LOGS Semi loads of pine, spruce, tamarack, poplar, birch.

Price depends on location of delivery. Lil Mule Logging 403-318-4346

1930

Wanted To Buy

BLUE GRASS LTD. is looking for Lodgepole Pine and Scots Pine in any size.

Willing to dig or pick up ourselves. Contact Bill 403-226-0468.

BLUE GRASS LTD. is looking for logging truck loads of Birch Firewood.

Split or logs, delivered or picked up. Contact Bill 403-226-0468.

Al York

General Manager Cell: (403) 783-0593 Bus: (403) 843-3700

Rimbey, AB Agricultural #2000 - #2290

Livestock

Fax: (403) 843-3430

ANIMAL SERVICES

2100

Grain, Feed Hay

2190

ROUND BALES Alfalfa, Timothy, Brome mix

CONCRETE SERVICES

No rain, 1100-1200 lbs.

WETASKIWIN READY MIX

$110/bale Usona area 403-783-5985 ROUND BALES - Hay, green feed, straw and bulk oats. Delivery available.

No Sunday calls please.

Phone 403-704-3509 or 403-704-4333.

870

Squeezthee MOST out of your advertising dollars Place your ad in this newspaper and12345 province wide $ with a combined circulation of over 800,000 for only...

995 plus GST/HST

Value Ad Network

Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association toll free 1-800-282-6903 x228 email andrea@awna.com or visit this community newspaper

Career Planning

Rimbey Implements Ltd.

FREE SCRAP and truck removal including farm machinery. We pay cash at our yard. 1-780-914-7560; www.sturgeonbusparts.ca.

880

Please send resumes by Fax: 403-350-1126 Or email : info@rennmill.co

• Part time, contract position.

• Excellent communication skills, Good listening skills, ability & willingness to work with a variety of personality types required • Proficient with Microsoft Word, Publisher, Power Point & Excel are required; the ability to learn other computer programs in a timely manner would be beneficial.

• You need to be computer savvy and to work in an organized & efficient manner, as there may be several projects on the go at the same time.

• Ability to work independently to complete assigned tasks, but also as part of a team are essential.

• Experience taking minutes for a Board of Directors and committees, developing Agendas in conjunction with Executive, development of brochures and other promotional material, as well as other sundry administrative tasks for a volunteer Board of Directors is required.

• Some grant applications, letter & document writing are part of the position, so proficient grammatical & composition skills are required.

• This position approximates 300 – 400 hours per year. Hours will vary monthly, depending on the events that occur each month.

• This position requires that you have your office space to work from.

• Applications accepted until position is filled. Position will commence as soon as suitable candidate is found.

AG EQUIPMENT

BRED heifers, Blacks & Sim X, calving Mar. 20; 403-843-6463

RENN MILL CENTER INC.

Business Opportunities

1660

1620

Forklift experience required, must be mechanically inclined Full Time-permanent position – Benefits available

Ponoka Agricultural Society is Seeking an Administrative Assistant to the Board of Directors

Firewood

920

•

Residential • Commercial • Agricultural

OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY Ph: 587-786-3142 780-352-4301 dmarkevich@wrmconcrete.com

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES

A & J AUTOMOTIVE A & J AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR 6701 - 46 Ave. 6701 46 Ave. Ponoka, AB - T4J 1J8 Ponoka, T4J 1J8 (403)AB783-8755 (403) 783-8755 Al Dickhaut Owner/Operator Al Dickhaut Owner/Operator

Let us amplify your message!

12345

This space could be yours for $

30

PER WEEK

Add this feature to your next career ad booking

Call for more details 1-800-282-6903 ext 235

Call 403-783-3311

22 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015

PLUMBING SHANDALL PLUMBING LTD. JAMES AVERY “Reasonable rates on all your plumbing needs” Gas Fitting - Home Renovations - Drain Cleaning -24 HOUR SERVICE-

DENTISTRY

Business and Services Directory Misc.

Services

Sur-B Enterprises Ltd.

1290

BOBCAT SERVICE

OVERHEAD DOORS

www.doorsondemand.ca

403-783-2454

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE FOR JUST

30

$

PER WEEK.

REACHING 6000 HOUSEHOLDS PER WEEK.

BOTTLE DEPOT

PONOKA BOTTLE DEPOT Open Monday - Saturday 10 am - 5 pm

Closed Sundays & Holidays We Now Recycle Milk Cartons for Deposit

3, 5520 Hwy 2A (Across from Husky)

403-783-6875

Cleaning

403-307-4691

fjbpainting@hotmail.com

1070

Quality First Always • Free Quotes

Personal Services

Papa’s Little Helpers Cleaning Services We Make It Clean

Celebrate your life with a Classified ANNOUNCEMENT

Legal Services

1260

CRIMINAL RECORD? Think: Canadian pardon.

U.S. travel waiver.

Divorce? Simple.

Fast. Inexpensive. Debt recovery? Alberta collection to $25,000.

Calgary 403-228-1300/ 1-800-347-2540.

Misc.

Services

1290

EASY ALBERTA DIVORCE: Free consultation call 1-800-320-2477 or www.canadianlegal.org CCA Award #1 Paralegal.

A+ BBB Reputation. 26 years experience.

Open Mon. - Sat. Classifieds...costs so little Saves you so much!

HAVE YOU BEEN denied Canada Pension Plan disability benefits? The Disability Claims Advocacy Clinic can help you appeal. Call 1-877-793-3222; www.dcac.ca info@dcac.ca.

Misc.

Services

1290

Being a new parent isn’t easy . . .

Heather Goodwin 403-704-3647 heathermccg@shaw.ca REACH OVER 1 Million Readers Weekly. Advertise Province Wide Classifieds.

Only $269 + GST (based on 25 words or less). Call now for details 1-800-282-6903 ext. 228; www.awna.com.

This paper is

1Re0cyc0la%ble Misc.

Services

Tues - Fri: 8:30 am-5:30 pm Saturday: 9 am-3 pm

1315

Rental Misc

Need RV or Self Storage?

403-783-5225

5118 - 51 Ave., Ponoka, AB T4J 1R5

www.birchlanddental.ca • DR. RICK BARR • DR. STELIAN LISMAN - General Dentistry - Orthodontics - Cosmetic Dentistry - Bonding - Veneers - Bleaching - White or Gold Fillings - Crown and Bridge - Implant Restorations

“WE ENTHUSIASTICALLY WELCOME NEW PATIENTS”

EYE CARE

783-3636

CANADA BENEFIT GROUP. Do you or someone you know suffer from a disability? Get up to $40,000. from the Canadian Government.

Toll free 1-888-511-2250 or www.canadabenefit. ca/free-assessment.

1318

CLINKERS KENNELS * Quality Boarding for your dogs & cats *Proof of vaccinations and advance bookings required HOURS: Mon - Thurs 9 am - 12 Noon; 4 pm - 6 pm; Fri. 9 am - 12 Noon; 4 pm - 7 pm; Sat. 9 a.m. - 12 noon; Sun. 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. & 4 - 7 p.m.

403-783-6272

www.clinkerskennels.ca

Welding

1410

METAL ROOFING & SIDING. 32+ colours available at over 55 Distributors. 40 year warranty. 48 hour Express Service available at select supporting Distributors. Call 1-888-263-8254.

Drs. Heimdahl, ZoBell & Kallal 403-783-5575 1-800-662-7168 WWW.4YOUREYESONLY.CA

-

•

5120-51ST AVE, PONOKA

ADVANCED EYE HEALTH & VISION EXAMS CONSULTATION & REFERRAL SERVICES DESIGNER EYE WEAR & CONTACT LENSES INSURED MEDICAL EYECARE SERVICES NOW AVAILABLE FOR ALL AGES

NEW PATIENTS ALWAYS WELCOME

OFFICE HOURS: Monday - Friday 8AM - 12:30PM • 1PM - 5PM

AN EXCELLENT CHOICE WHERE YOUR AD REACHES RURAL READERS

CALL 1-877-223-3311 CLASSIFIEDS HOT-LINE WHATEVER YOU’RE SELLING...

WE HAVE THE PAPER YOU NEED!

Welding

This space could be yours for $

30

PER WEEK

Call 403-783-3311 HEATING

1410 “Committed to your comfort”

Robin Esau

OUR SPECIALITY

Repair of any cooling or refrigeration system as well as large household appliances.

Refrigeration

DENTAL CLINIC

8’ X 10’ mini storage units available for rent.

Also RV storage.

Secure compound.

Call Keith at

1370

Ph. (403) 843-2173 Fax: (403) 843-2607

DENTAL CARE

1350

1290

Berni's 403-783-5185 1-800-662-7135 Fax: 403-783-4635

Box 1100 4905 50 St. Rimbey, AB T0C 2J0

First Call Towing Unplanned pregnancy may be difficult to face.

We care. For confidential help call 403-343-1611 (24 hrs.) Roofing

Pet Services

SALES & SERVICE

Motorcycles & ATV’s

1310

INT • EXT RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL

Business Services #1000 - #1430

403-704-9766

Gerald & Tina Owners

Painters/ Decorators

F.J.B. PAINTING

Call Jhenn at

#4, 3616 67 St. Ponoka, AB

Family Friendly Dentistry

today

BOBCAT SERVICES

Jack Surbey 783-5283 Cell: 588-0597

DR. STEVE CALDER BS C DDS

TO ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS OR SERVICE HERE CALL CLASSIFIEDS

5306 - 60 ST, PONOKA, AB T4J 1K7 PH: (403) 783-6372 • FAX (403) 783-6345

• Snow Removal • Driveways & Parking Lots • Post-Hole Augering - 6, 9, 12, 15 • Corral Cleaning • Grading & Construction Call Jim Ashbough 403-783-2764 or Cell: 587-729-0092 Call Jim Ashbough 783-2764 or Cell: 588-0599

RIMBEYDENTALCARE

Ph: 403-782-7722 Fax: 403-782-7499

robin@KlesAir.com www.KlesMechanical.com

• B-PRESSURE • PIPELINE • OILFIELD • ASME Section VIII Division I VESSEL FABRICATION & PIPING • SHOP/PORTABLE • CNC PLASMA CUTTING • ALUMINUM • SHEARING & FORMING

MAIN: (403) 783-7591

and Appliance Service

FAX: (403) 783-8178

403-783-4880

Website: www.harbinwelding.com E-mail: bharbin@telus.net

Advertise your business in the Business Directory!

PONOKA NEWS 23

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015 HEATING & EAVESTROUGHING

Commercial - Residential Installations - Repair

3912 - 66 St, Ponoka www.wcmltd.ca

403.783.3501 wcmltd@telus.net

BOBCAT SERVICES PONOKA BOBCAT SERVICE

Grain, Feed Hay

2190

FOR SALE: Alfalfas, Clovers, Grasses plus Hay, Pasture, Reclamation and Lawn Mixtures. Early order discount - Book now!

No charge custom blending. Call 1-800-661-1529 or esther.stigter@ hannasseeds.com.

HEATED CANOLA buying Green, Heated or Springthrashed Canola. Buying: oats, barley, wheat & peas for feed. Buying damaged or offgrade grain. “On Farm Pickup” Westcan Feed & Grain, 1-877-250-5252.

A division of 1127730 Alberta Ltd.

NO JOB TOO SMALL!

SNOW PLOWING & CLEARING

WCB • Insured • Licensed Locally owned/operated

CALL BRIAN HEBERT

403-506-3377

VETERINARY SERVICES

Bovine Veterinary Services On-Farm Mobile Veterinary Services Ultrasound-aided ReproducƟve Programs CETA CerƟĮed Dairy and Beef Embryo Transfer Herd Health

Phone 403-391-1684 ʹͶ

Dr. Bruce Wine

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE FOR JUST

30

$

PER WEEK.

REACHING 6000 HOUSEHOLDS PER WEEK.

VETERINARY SERVICES

For Rent #3000 - #3200

Acreages/Farms ..............3010 Houses/Duplexes ............3020 Condos/Townhouses........3030 Manufactured Homes ......3040 Four Plexes/Six Plexes ....3050 Suites ..............................3060 Cottages/Seasonal ..........3070 Roommates Wanted ........3080 Rooms for Rent................3090 Motels/Hotels ..................3100 Offices ..............................3110 Stores/Commercial ..........3120 Industrial ..........................3130 Warehouse Space............3140 Garage Space..................3150 Storage Space ................3160 Land ................................3170 Pasture ............................3180 Mobile Lot ........................3190 Misc. for Rent ..................3200

8 a.m. - 5 p.m Mon. to Sat. • Open late Thursday 24-hour Emergency Call • Dr. Kelly Loree • Dr. Leighton Coma • Dr. Trevor Hook • Dr. Jasmine Hardy • Dr. Candace Wenzel

Reaching 6000 households weekly

For just

$30 per week this space could be yours!

403-783-3311

3060

Available Immediately 1 bdrm suite utilities incl.

403-790-6011 TAKING APPLICATIONS FOR IMMEDIATE POSSESSION OF ONE BEDROOM BASEMENT SUITE

located close to downtown Ponoka.

C/W fridge, stove, microwave, W&D. Non-smoking, no pets.

$700.00/mo + $150.00/mo for utilities, $700.00 DD. PH. 403-783-6009

HARVEST MANOR

1 bdrm, 2 bdrm & bachelor studio Working individual

403-704-3327 403-870-3899

Downtown Ponoka One bdrm Apartment No Smoking No Pets

403-357-0654

Wanted to Rent #3250 - #3390 Acreages/Farms ..............3255 * RIVERSIDE APTS. * Houses/Duplexes ............3260 Suites ..............................3270 Rooms..............................3280 Manufactured Homes ......3290 Housesitting Wanted ........3300 Garage Space..................3310 Storage Space ................3320 Stores/Commercial ..........3330 Office Space ....................3340 Industrial ..........................3350 Warehouse Space............3360 Resorts & Cottages..........3370 Pasture/Land....................3380 Mobile Lot ........................3390

Houses/ Duplexes

3020

AVAILABLE JANUARY 1

2 bdrm house with single car garage $850/mnth plus D.D. N/S, N/P

5004 56 Ave, Ponoka

CALL 403-588-0597 PONOKA, Duplex avail.

Jan. 1. 3 bedroom. $950. rent/dd, no pets, 4 appls. + drapes. 403-346-3943 or 403-358-9179

Southwest Industrial Park 4102-64 St., Ponoka 403-783-5200

Suites

Condos/ Townhouses

3030

New Blackfalds Condo. 2 Bdrm/2 Bath. Main floor & 2nd floor options avail. 2 powered parking stalls.

Rent $1,400. Pets negotiable. Ask about rent incentives. 403-396-1688.

Suites

3060

AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY

Newly renovated 1 & 2 bedroom units in Ponoka: 3724-45 Street.

403-357-0287

Pasture

3180

PASTURE & HAY LAND. 400 - 8000 acres of year round water supply. Full operational with management available. Central Saskatchewan. Crossfenced & complete infrastructure. Natural springs excellent water.

Shortly ready to locate cattle. Other small & large grain & pasture quarters. $150k - $2.6m. Call Doug Rue 306-716-2671.

VETERINARY SERVICES

Ponoka Veterinary Clinic Real Estate #4000 - #4190

Realtors & Services..........4010 Houses for Sale................4020 Houses Wanted ................4030 Condos/Townhouses ........4040 Acreages ..........................4050 Acreages Wanted ............4060 Farms/Land ......................4070 Farms/Land Wanted ........4080 Manufactured/ Mobile Homes ..................4090 Income Property ..............4100 Commercial Property ......4110 Industrial Property ............4120 Cottages/Resort Property ..4130 Businesses for Sale..........4140 Buildings for Sale ............4150 Lots for Sale ....................4160 Out of Town Property ......4170 Investment Opportunities ..4180 Mortgages Bought/Sold....4190

Condos/ Townhouses

Need to Downsize? Brand New Valley Crossing Condos in Blackfalds. Main floor is 1,119 SQ FT 2 Bdrm/2Bath. Imm. Poss.

Start at $219,900. Call 403-396-1688.

4090

Manufactured Homes

HARVEST SALE! Save $50,000 from the replacement cost of this 20 X 76 drywalled Grandeur Showhome that has to go! A sacrifice at $124,900. Call Terry 1-855-347-0417 or email: terry@ grandviewmodular.com.

403.783.3311

Automotive Services ........5010 Antique & Classic Autos ....5020 Cars ..................................5030 SUV’s................................5040 Trucks ..............................5050 Heavy Trucks....................5060 Vans/Buses ......................5070 Motorcycles ......................5080 Campers ..........................5090 Motorhomes......................5100 5th Wheels........................5110 Holiday Trailers ................5120 Tent Trailers ......................5130 Utility Trailers ....................5140 ATV’s ................................5150 Boats & Marine ................5160 Snowmobiles ....................5170 Tires, Parts & Accessories ......................5180 Auto Wreckers ..................5190 Vehicles Wanted ..............5200 Car/Truck Rental ..............5210 Recreational Vehicle Rental ..............................5220 Trailer Rental ....................5230 Misc. Automotive ..............5240 RV’s ..................................5300

Motorcycles

5080

WIN - 2016 Harley Davidson Dyna Wide Glide FXDWG103. 2nd $700/credit; 3rd $300/credit. Only 599 tickets printed. Three Early Bird Draws. $100/ticket. June 17 draw.

Proceeds to support Motorcycle & Harley Programs, GPRC Fairview Campus. 1-888-539-4772; www.gprc.ab.ca. License #421307.

Reached a Milestone?

Share it!

Dr. Murray • Murray Jacobson, DVM • Jacobson Clayton West, DVM Dr. Clayton West • Nicole Macdonald, DVM • Katie Graves, DVM Dr. Ashley Shannon

Mon. - Fri. 8 am - 5 pm Sat. 9 am - 4:30 pm

24 Hr. Emergency 403-783-4348

5502 - Hwy 2A Ponoka, AB

T4J 1M1

BOBCAT SERVICES

BRUCE’S BOBCAT

Snow Cleaning & Removal

403-783-0663 PLUMBING

PONOKA PLUMBING & HEATING • JOURNEYMAN PLUMBER REQUIRED We now carry a complete line of Ritchie Stockwater parts Hours of Business: Monday - Friday 7:30 8:00 am - 5 pm

5110 -50 Street Box 4414 Ponoka, Alberta T4J 1R7

JESSE ZINTER Office - 403-783-5489

Public Notice #6000

WATER WELL DRILLING SERVICE

Public Notices ..................6010 Special Features ..............6050

1.887.223.3311

Business getting Public Notices nowhere?

ADVERTISE!

4040

Transportation #5000-5300

TELL it all! Tell it well! Make your ads sell for you by giving full description of goods or services offered. Include prices and terms. Phone 1-877-223-3311 for a friendly ad taker.

6010 PUBLIC NOTICE SPRUCELANE POULTRY LTD. WATER ACT NOTICE OF APPLICATION

Notice is given that Sprucelane Poultry Ltd. has Àled an application under the provision of the Water Act for a License to divert groundwater up to a maximum of 12,000.0 cubic metres annually from a well for the purpose of Agricultural (ConÀned Feeding Operation) at SW 07-044-27-W4. The production interval of the water well is from 35.3 metres to 45.7 metres.

Any person who is directly affected by the application may submit a statement of concern to Environment and Parks Regulatory Approvals Centre Main Floor 9820 - 106 Street Edmonton AB T5K 2J6 Telephone: 780-427-6311 Fax: 780-422-0154 within 30 days of this notice.

Please quote Àle number: 00370987 Further information regarding this application may be obtained from:

Bachelor suite $600/mnth including utilities 403-790-6011

Ken Hugo Groundwater Information Technologies Ltd. 44 2110 - 41 Avenue Calgary AB T2E 8Z7 Telephone: 403-650-8511 Fax: 403-250-3518

PONOKA 2 bdrm. well maintained quiet adult building, no pets $825/mo. + power, heat/water incld. avail. immed.

Brian 403-348-6594

Statements Àled regarding this application are public records which are accessible by the public. Statements should explain why the Àler is directly affected and provide the full printed name, phone number and/or email address, postal address and legal land location of the Àler.

Failure to Àle statements of concerns may affect the right to Àle a notice of appeal with the Environmental Appeals Board.

• Water wells drilled • Water wells serviced 403-783-2220 WEBSITE@DARCYSDRILLING.COM

WATER WELL SERVICE

ECKLUND

Water Well Service

• Install & Service Pumps • Shock Wells • Pressure Systems Serviced & Installed Home: (403) 783-3712 Cell: (403) 704-3413

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE FOR JUST

30

$

PER WEEK.

REACHING 6000 HOUSEHOLDS PER WEEK.

24 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015

EVENT

•

ON MOST NEW MODELS

NO PAYMENTS ‘TIL SPRING AND CASH BACKS UP TO $12,000! •

MSRP $21,164 $ 135 B/W 84MTHS

SALE

C1208

$

2015 FOCUS SE SEDAN

19,500

MSRP $34,299 $ 209 B/W 84MTHS

SALE

C1282

$

29,900

2015 F150 S/CAB MSRP $50,799 $ 244 B/W 84MTHS

SALE

T1268

$

35,004

MSRP $49,729 $ 269 B/W 84MTHS

SALE

T1204

$

2016 FUSION SW AWD

MSRP $38,799 $ 242 B/W 84MTHS

SALE

2015 F150 CREW XTR

38,887

MSRP $64,089 $ 319 B/W 84MTHS

SALE

C1381

$

34,900

T0971

$

2016 MUSTANG 14 COUPE PREMIUM

2015 F350 CREW XLT DIESEL

45,998

ALL FACTORY REBATES TO DEALER. ALL VEHICLE PLUS GST AND FEES. $499 ADMIN & $20 TIRE TAX, $6.25 AMVIC FEE. EG. C1208 2015 FOCUS 4.9% OVER 84 MONTHS. BW PYMT $135. TOTAL PAYMENTS EQUAL $24961.30, TOTAL INTEREST EQUAL $3893.28

STUFF YOUR STOCKING WITH CHRISTMAS SAVINGS 2012 FOCUS SE

99

$

B/W 84MTHS

168

$

B/W 84MTHS

SALE

SALE

2013 DODGE DART

C0752A

$

12,900

P0502

$

99

$

B/W 84MTHS

SALE

2014 ESCAPE SW AWD

23,900

180

$

B/W 84MTHS

SALE

T0522

$

13,900

T1164A

$

$

155

B/W 84MTHS

SALE

2013 EDGE SEL AWD

25,900

$

283

B/W 84MTHS

SALE

L0486

$

21,900

P0510

$

2013 ESCAPE SW AWD

2014 F150 FX4 LUXURY CREW CAB

40,900

*ALL PR ICES PLU S $499 AD M IN FEE & GST. E G 2012 F ORD F OCUS SE 84 MON THS F IN AN CIN G 4. 99% APR TOTAL PY MTS $ 1 8 5 5 0 .4 0 . TOTAL INTEREST $ 2 8 6 6 .3 8

“Let your Legacy start here.”

www.legacyfordponoka.ca

YOUR LEGACY TEAM

Pat Boardman General Sales Manager

Kelly Perras Finance Manager

Trevor Feragen Sales Consultant

Eric Dortman Sales Consultant

Robin Patrick Sales Consultant